Should local government look to spend more on transport infrastructure in the hope of a longer return?

Areas with good transport links generally do better than those without; residents can travel to work easily and good network links provide further employment opportunities. Photograph: David Sillitoe for the Guardian

Areas with good transport links generally do better than those without; residents can travel to work easily and good network links provide further employment opportunities.

Plans to allow authorities to keep the business rates they generate, within reason, mean growth and development will also be key to an area's success.

But as financial belts tighten, should local government look to spend more on transport infrastructure in the hope of a longer return for their area?

For more discussion on this topic see our live Q&A on Wednesday.

Should local government look to spend more on transport infrastructure in the hope of a longer return for their area?

90%

Yes - Better transport links and retention of rates will bring much-needed growth to an area

10%

No - Local government can ill afford to invest in infrastructure at the current time